Mindfulness-based forgiveness groups for older adults |
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Authors: | Mariko A Foulk Berit Ingersoll-Dayton James Fitzgerald |
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Institution: | 1. Michigan Medicine Geriatrics Center, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USAmfoulk@umich.edu;3. The University of Michigan School of Social Work, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA;4. Michigan Medicine Medical School, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA;5. Veterans Administration Medical Center Ann Arbor Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA |
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Abstract: | ABSTRACTInterventions that enable individuals to be more forgiving toward themselves and others are important for older adults. This article describes a group intervention for adults aged 60 or older that integrates forgiveness-related skills with a mindfulness approach. The Mindfulness-based Forgiveness Group was designed to meet for eight sessions. The skills taught included: recognizing one’s own expectations and unenforceable rules, broadening one’s perspectives about the context of the transgression, and discovering positive intentions through exercises as well as a variety of meditations to cultivate mindfulness, self-compassion and forgiveness. Data from five Mindfulness-Based Forgiveness Groups were collected. Based on pre- and post-test measures, analyses indicate that participants improved significantly in relation to forgiveness, mindfulness/self-compassion, and mental health. Using qualitative post-test data from participants, we identify elements of the intervention that appear to be helpful. Suggestions are provided for social workers seeking to replicate and build upon this promising intervention. |
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Keywords: | Forgiveness mindfulness meditation group intervention self-compassion |
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